The 8th president of the United States was Martin Van Buren. He served as president from 1837 to 1841 and was one of the founders of the Democratic Party. Van Buren was known by nicknames such as "The Little Magician" and "The Red Fox of Kinderhook" and had a notable political career including roles as New York State Senator, Attorney-General, U.S. Senator, Governor of New York, and Secretary of State before his presidency.